Watch train blow tractor-trailer in half

A dramatic scene was caught on video last Friday when an 18-wheeler loaded with cotton bales stuck on a railroad crossing in Kings Mountain, N.C., was sliced in half by a train that did not stop. (Beware of loud screaming on the video)

Kevin Harlow and his wife Kassie witnessed the train crash. … Harlow described how he saw the tractor-trailer stop along the railroad crossing. He said the driver got out and unsuccessfully attempted to free his truck.

Less than three minutes later, Harlow said he heard the train’s whistle and saw the lights through the trees. The tractor-trailer’s driver jumped out of the train’s way with about 15 seconds to spare, Harlow said.

Debris from the tractor-trailer scattered along the road. The impact sliced the vehicle into two pieces – one on either side of the tracks. White fluff covered the ground from the destroyed cotton bales the tractor-trailer carried.